NAF prioritises technology, innovation to tackle security challenges

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), has reiterated commitment to leverage innovation and research to address security challenges in the country.

AVM Usman Abdullahi, the Officer Commanding, Special Operations Command, Bauchi, stated this at the 2025 Special Operations Command Intra Command Research and Development (R&D) Competition, on Wednesday in Bauchi.

The theme of the competition is: “Optimising Civil-Military Cooperation in Research and Development for Enhanced Air Operations.”

He underscored the crucial role of research and development in improving air power for enhance national security.

“Research and development are key drivers of societal growth and innovation. They play a pivotal role in increasing the platforms available for operations in various parts of the country,” he said.

Abdullahi said the sevice had made significant strides in research and development, which contributed to projecting the nation’s interest through effective air power.

He said the initiative aligned with the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar’s philosophy of prioritising research and development, to leverage cutting edge technology and strategic partnerships.

The commander, who highlighted the importance of human resource development, said that knowledgeable personnel would ensure effective system operations.

Abdullahi said the annual research and development competition had been a bedrock for innovative ideas aimed at solving service related problems in maintenance and operational effectiveness.

He tasked the personnel to remain committed towards advancing sustainable solutions for the service and the nation.

He lauded the initiative, describing it as a “strategic move to harness the intellectual capacity of NAF personnel in addressing critical operational needs.”

Also, AVM Adeniyi Amesinlola, Chief of Transformations and Innovation, charged the participants to look inward towards solving problems through technology.

Represented by AVM Henry Yurkusi, Amesinlola enjoined the personnel to look into the observations made in their research works and make corrections to prepare them for the next presentation.

“NAF is ready to support any genuinely proposals that will solve problems and challenges of insecurity in the country,” he said

Supreme news reports that 213 Unit emerged the overall winner of the competition out of the 10 participating units of the command.

The event also provided a preparatory platform for the upcoming Nigerian Air Force Inter Command Research and Development Competition billed to be held in May.